In June, the Tempe Chamber of Commerce brought together business and community leaders for the 2026 Business Excellence Awards Annual Luncheon, celebrating the bold leaders, businesses and organizations helping shape the future of Tempe. Held June 11 at Culinary Dropout Tempe, the event recognized nominees across nine award categories and announced this year’s winners.
The 2026 awardees included:
Tempe Leadership Community Leader of the Year: Dave Tally (posthumous)
Volunteer of the Year: Patty Alfano
Spirit of Tempe: Harvey Gibson
Small Business of the Year: Mulberry Health
Large Business of the Year: Aurora Behavioral Health
Nonprofit of the Year: Tempe Community Action Agency
Innovation & Sustainability: United Dairymen Association
Cool Place to Work: Crest Insurance Group
First Responder of the Year: Detective Jordan Larson, Tempe Police Department
The Business Excellence Awards shine a spotlight on the people and organizations whose leadership, innovation, service and commitment contribute to a thriving Tempe business community.
Congratulations to all of this year’s honorees, and thank you to the sponsors, nominees and community leaders who helped make this celebration possible. Award winners also receive an engraved award, official winner logo, Tempe Lifestyle Magazine recognition, and digital and social media recognition.
